My Fourth of July by Jerry Spinelli, Larry Day
Published by Neal Porter Books on May 14, 2019
ISBN: 0823442888
Pages: 40
Genres: Folklore, Realistic Fiction
Goodreads

Spinelli has captured a holiday celebration right out of my kid’s childhood on Cape Cod.  The Fourth of July always came complete with parade, games, food and naturally fireworks.   This story is nostalgic yet it will ring true for most adults and children who have participated in such a town event.  The train all decked out in flags is a special touch emphasizing the patriotic nature of the holiday.

Day portrays the children as they naturally would be; gleeful, active, and excited.  He captures their enthusiasm as well as their weariness at the end of the day.  The two-page spread of our active boy   winding down is classic.   Although the Fourth of July may not resemble this observance in 2020 the   book should be included in holiday sections of public libraries.  This title will open conversations about the flag and lead to discussions concerning patriotism.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth service librarian in Scarborough, ME.